Jan Brewer won a full term, defeating Arizona Attorney General and Democratic nominee Terry Goddard 54% to 42%.

Democratic Governor Janet Napolitano was term limited and nominated to become Secretary of Homeland Security by President-elect Barack Obama, and was confirmed by the United States Senate on January 20, 2009, resigning as governor the same day.

[3] The primary to select the 2010 Republican nominee for governor of Arizona was held on August 24, 2010.

The debate drew national attention after Jan Brewer "stumbled and stammered" through her opening statements.

Goddard said quote Jan I'm going to give you an opportunity to admit that was a false statement but of course the governor Steered clear of the question.